Sustainability
SV.CO₂
We are actively working on peat-free cultivation. Day in, day out we test new possibilities to fully switch to peat-free potting soil. We are making great progress and are proud that our 9cm Kalanchoë is being cultivated completely peat-free since January 1, 2026.
Water is essential, also in our cultivation. It is a global and urgent topic, now and in the years to come. That is why we purify and reuse our water every day, minimize waste, and work together on smart solutions that also benefit our surroundings.
Our plants are cultivated with care, with respect for people, planet, and profit. We meet strict international standards and are proud of our certifications: MPS-ABC, MPS-GAP, MPS-SQ, and GRASP. In this way we keep challenging ourselves to become more sustainable every day.
Sustainability over time
Peat-Free Cultivation
Peat in potting soil retains water and nutrients, but its extraction causes CO₂ emissions. That’s why we’re actively working towards peat-free cultivation. Day in, day out, we test new possibilities to fully switch to peat-free potting soil. We’re making great progress and are proud that our 9cm Kalanchoë will be grown completely peat-free starting January 1, 2026.
Uganda
SV.CO has been growing cuttings for Dutch cultivation with Xclusive Uganda since 2006. As co-owners, we are closely involved and support employment, education and healthcare for 600 employees. The favourable climate in Uganda makes cultivation virtually energy-neutral, while transporting cuttings to the Netherlands is more sustainable than local production.
Geothermal Energy
We invest in geothermal energy to heat our greenhouses without fossil fuels. This will significantly reduce our gas consumption.
CHP (Combined Heat and Power)
Our CHP plants efficiently produce electricity, heat and CO₂ from gas. We use the heat and CO₂ in our greenhouses, and the electricity generated is fed into the grid or used for lighting. With a capacity of 6.8 MW in 2024, we also contribute to the stability of the electricity grid by assisting in case of shortages.
Emission-Free Cultivation
By 2027, SV.CO aims to have completely emission-free sites for fertilisers and plant protection products. All water will be reused and we deploy biological control agents against pests as much as possible.
Climate Neutral
We aim for climate-neutral cultivation by 2040 through sustainable energy, CO₂ storage, and compensation.
LED Lights
All nursery departments have now switched to LED lighting because of their high light requirements. From 2025, we will replace even more lamps with LEDs for further sustainability.
Rainlevelr
We work with the Delfland Water Board to prevent water flooding. Three of our five locations are connected to Rainlevelr. During predicted downpours, they ask us to discharge 10% of our water storage into the ditch so that the ditches have sufficient capacity during heavy rainfall.
Sustainable Packaging
We encourage sustainable choices by offering paper packaging, reducing the use of plastic. Customers can choose a paper sleeve and tray or the SV.Box made of 100% recycled cardboard.
The New Cultivation
Our cultivation managers follow The New Cultivation to improve plant growth and save energy. With air handling units, we distribute dry air evenly, saving 25% energy and creating a stable climate.
